This morning, Nick headed out to SW Portland to check on a main break on SW Vista Avenue between SW Elm and Spring.

Just after midnight, an 86 year-old eight-inch cast iron main ruptured, causing water to flow into the street. Water to the broken pipe has been shut off and crews are working fast to restore service to the neighborhood.

Cast iron water mains are at risk of breaking during winter months, as cold water can cause pipes to become more brittle. Adding freezing air temperatures can cause the ground above a pipe to freeze, increasing external stress on a pipe.

Temperature is just one factor in causing a main break. The age of the pipe, soil conditions, pipe corrosion, and ground movement can cause a main to weaken over time and break.

For more information, visit the Water Bureau’s website or call (503) 823-7404.